Classes meet Sundays from 10:00-10:30am. Children begin in church with their families and leave with their teachers after the opening hymn. They return just prior to Communion.
Occasionally, to promote understanding of the worship service, Sunday School students attend the 10am Worship Service. Children sit together with their teachers and practice using the tools of worship. They join in the procession, help serve as ushers and lectors, hear a special sermon, and the Jr. Choir even processes as a choir! These special days are called “Kids in Church” Sundays!
Nursery Care (Birth – 3 years)
Child-care is provided from 7:45am-11:15am. Parents can drop-off and pick-up throughout the 8am and 10am services. The Nursery is located in Platt’s Hall.
Primary (Pre-Kindergarten – 1st grade)
Children explore biblical stories and Episcopal traditions in a welcoming way. Classes follow a predictable pattern (Gathering, Storytelling, Engaging, and Closing) and are designed to be interactive.
Starting in Pre-Kindergarten, children will begin learning responses common to the worship service (Thanks be to God!) and become familiar with hearing Scripture in an age appropriate way. Games, crafts, and songs help young students engage with the material. This year (2019-2020) begins with the stories of Ruth and David, showing the trust that they had in the Lord. As the students progress through the year, they will learn how Jesus is a teacher and when we come to church, we are reminded to love others through worship! The year ends with a reminder that we can worship God in many ways, at many times, and with many songs!
Elementary (2nd – 5th grade)
Children engage biblical stories, Episcopal traditions, and the worship service. Building on the foundation set in their primary years, children continue hearing the great stories of the bible. Children interact with the materials used in worship (Bible, Book of Common Prayer, and Hymnal) to prepare for their eventual understanding of the Episcopal service.
Elementary students will build on the concepts learned in their Primary years and will quickly become accustomed to locating and reading Scripture for themselves. Classes begin by reciting an opening statement or prayer, followed by an opportunity for student lectors to read Scripture aloud. A time of discussion and brief activity is always concluded with prayer. This year (2019 - 2020) begins with stories from the Old Testament, showing the faithfulness of the characters. After studying Jesus’ teachings from the Sermon on the Mount, the Golden Rule, and the importance of all people as ministers throughout Units 2 and 3, the students will see how the church worships and serves together to share the love of God. In Unit 4, students will understand more of their own history, as they study the history of the Anglican church.
Church School Registration
Registration is required for all Church School students, Pre-K - 12th Grade. Registration is NOT required for adult programs.
As a reminder, registration for Church School is not a substitute for a new member registration form. If you are interested in becoming a member of St. James' Episcopal Church, please email Lisa Reinhardt at for more information!
For more information about 2019 - 2020 year, including schedules, curriculum information, and program descriptions, please see the 2019 - 2020 Education Epistle
If you have any further questions, please email Lauren Exley, the Director of Education, at
Middle School (6th – 8th grade)
The Middle School years are about forming the basis for the adult Christian life. Youth begin connecting their faith to the world around them. Students learn Episcopal Church basics alongside their continuing study of Scripture.
Middle School classes place emphasis on students forming a solid foundation for their future adult Christian life. Each class follows the structure of the Episcopal service, beginning with the daily Collect, followed by Scripture reading, a time of engaging, and a concluding prayer read from the Book of Common Prayer. This year (2019 - 2020), students will connect their study of scripture to a variety of public figures and examples of Christian living throughout history and present day. These public figures will act as a springboard for further discussion and activity that will challenge the youth to live lives centered around Christian principles. Units 1, 2, and 3 also conclude with lessons from The Basic Series, a resource that introduces basic principles of the Episcopal Church. Unit 4 provides a unique opportunity to follow The Way of Love, a resource produced by the national Episcopal Church and promoted by Bishop Michael Curry. This series is sure to change the heart, mind, and soul for a new outlook on yourself, Christ and the world.
High School (9th – 12th grade)
High School students participate in a variety of discussions and programs. The class is designed to transition students from a follower of the church to a leader in the church. Students have the opportunity to be confirmed (a separate course) and become more integrated in to the life of the parish.
High School classes provide a time for our older youth to discover and debate their faith in a supportive environment. Students will have the opportunity to discuss a variety of topics, from Scripture to the “real-world”. The class structure is designed to transition students into their life as an Episcopal adult.
MS and HS students are encouraged to join a church ministry (Acolyte, Altar Guild, Music, etc.) in addition to coming to classes. Altar acolytes, crucifers, and torch bearers can participate in the processional, attend class, and continue serving as usual after returning.
